Quebec City: A Blend of History, Culture, and Modern Charm

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Historic cobblestone street lined with quaint stone buildings under a clear sky.

After two years of pandemic-related restrictions, my partner and I were eager to embark on an adventure before the harsh Canadian winter of 2021 set in. As the world was still navigating through travel advisories and uncertainties, we opted for the freedom of the open road, maintaining social distance while still satisfying our craving for adventure.

Our journey was not just a trek through the magnificent landscapes of Canada’s Atlantic coast, but also a passionate quest for the traces left by Giovanni Caboto, better known as John Cabot. This Venetian explorer, serving under King Henry VII of England, set sail towards the end of the 15th century and is believed to have reached what is now considered the shores of Canada, likely in Newfoundland.

Each episode of our journey deeply immersed us in the heart of Eastern Canada. Quebec City, with its blend of history, culture, and contemporary vitality, opens just the first chapter of our “Caboto Chronicles,” a five-episode journey along the Atlantic coast of Canada. An adventure that unfolds from Quebec to the rugged cliffs of the Gaspé Peninsula, through the breathtaking landscapes of Moncton. From the serenity of the landscapes of Port Hawkesbury to the spectacular views of St. Lawrence Bay, from picturesque walks along the Cabot Trail to the historic atmosphere of Lunenburg and Pier 21 in Halifax. A journey among majestic natural beauties that leave an indelible mark on the soul.

Quebec City - A Crossroads of History, Culture, and Modern Vitality

Map of driving route from Montreal to Sydney, Nova Scotia, highlighting key stops and travel duration.

Our journey began from Toronto at the first light of dawn: a departure from urban expansion to the realm of open roads and boundless exploration. The 800 km journey to Quebec City was a delightful succession of landscapes, from urban sprawl to small towns along the way, such as Kingston, a town rich in history and charm, located on Lake Ontario, known as the “Limestone City” for its impressive 19th-century buildings. There, we stopped to grab a bite to eat.

As we continued our journey, the landscape became increasingly enchanting as we approached Quebec City. Upon our arrival, as evening approached, the city lights began to sparkle, highlighting its charming historical profile and welcoming us in an embrace of beauty and history.

Dinner with a View of the Skyline

Our first evening in Quebec City was spent in the magical atmosphere of the Bistro-Bar Le Ciel, located at the top of the Hôtelle Concorde. As the bistro gently rotated, the movement was accompanied by the soft clinking of glasses and the inviting aromas of French cuisine. Our dinner was a sensory experience that offered us a breathtaking 360-degree panoramic view of the city. With thePlains of Abraham and the Boulevard Grand Allee unfolding beneath us, our culinary adventure became a true visual spectacle, immersing us in the vibrant essence of Quebec City.

Exploring the Charm of the Old World

Early in the morning, we chose to wander the labyrinthine streets of Old Quebec. The old part of the city is easily explored on foot. But, above all, walking is the best way to fully appreciate its impressive heritage. The lower town and the upper town are connected by sloping streets and stairs, while the funicular provides a welcoming alternative for those who find walking difficult, allowing for easy enjoyment of the upper town or use of the facility in both directions.

Quebec City is a vivid example of architectural preservation, where narrow cobblestone streets and sturdy bastions tell stories of a French colonial era. The historic buildings, from the Château Frontenac to small Norman-style shops, reflect a blend of European elegance and North American sturdiness. In bistros and cafés, the French heritage comes alive vibrantly through intimate interiors, menus filled with French specialties, and a welcoming atmosphere that encourages lingering conversations over a coffee or a glass of wine.

Breakfast at "Sagamité"

Our breakfast at “Sagamité” was not just a culinary indulgence but also a poignant reminder of Quebec City’s rich heritage. The restaurant is owned by a First Nations family, and we were warmly greeted by Daniel Perrier, who shared snippets of the fascinating history of the owning family. As we savoured each bite recommended by Niva, the matriarch, and listened to Daniel’s stories, a deep sense of gratitude overwhelmed us, connecting us to the ancestral roots of this land.

Colorful historic buildings and decorative plates in Quebec City, showcasing charming architecture and vibrant facades.

A Dive into Local History and Culture

Our exploration of Quebec City continued along Rue Saint Louis, where among the ancient facades adorned with signs of artisans from bygone times, we discovered the true soul of Quebec City. It felt as if we had been transported across continents, finding ourselves enveloped in the timeless charm of Europe.

From there, we reached the vibrant artists’ street, Rue Du Trésor. This narrow alley, hidden like a secret treasure, is an open-air art exhibition with colourful creations adorning the walls.

As we continued our walk through Place d’Armes, the striking red roof of the 1640 Bistro caught our eye, almost shouting, “Hey, look at me! And observe the vibrant vitality that surrounds me.” Around us, people seated at the bistro’s outdoor tables were indulging in a feast for the taste buds, while others chatted relaxedly on the benches of the small park around the central fountain, occasionally commenting on passersby heading towards the nearby Terrace Dufferin.

In our exploration of new places, we tend to create personalized itineraries, often letting ourselves be guided by a colour, a monument, or any detail that catches our interest. That morning, after crossing Montmorency National Park, we were pleasantly surprised to emerge onto the charming Rue Hébert. Decorated like a vibrant rainbow, thanks to the various exterior finishes and colourful doors, this street completely dazzled and enchanted us.

The building located at numbers 10-12-14 Rue Hébert, designed by Charles Baillairgé in 1856, is a charming combination of brick and stone enriched by various decorations. At number 5 on the same street, from 1821 to 1828, lived James MacPherson Le Moine, known as the Monk, a lawyer, official, and author. Le Moine considered himself primarily a historian, but he also had a deep appreciation for nature, a recurring element in his writings. In his book “Picturesque Quebec,” he also described routes and journeys, offering a fascinating glimpse into the landscapes and local history.

The Dufferin Terrace

Finally, we reached the Terrasse Dufferin, a magnificent wooden boardwalk that winds along the shores of the Saint Lawrence River. Here, with the majestic silhouette of the Château Frontenac as a backdrop, we contemplated the vast waterway, beneath which lie the remains of the Castle of Saint Louis, wrapped in the silence of time.

We decided to take a seat on one of the benches of the Terrasse Dufferin, turning our gaze towards the Saint Lawrence River.Observing its imposing flow and the serenity of the environment, I couldn’t help but notice the contrast between the static nature of the castle, anchored in the past, and the dynamism of the ships and boats on the river, pulsating symbols of modern life.

After this break, which was necessary for my knee, which had begun to hurt in the early days of our trip, we decided to climb back up to the upper part of the city via the stairs. Unable to walk as I would have liked, those numerous steps seemed like Mount Everest! I climbed, one step at a time, so awkwardly that I had to laugh at myself. And Rocco? He enjoyed filming me, capturing the moment in a video.

A Special Gathering

At the end of the day, I had the most anticipated appointment, the real reason for our stop in Quebec City: meeting up with my dear friend Kawther and her adorable family, whom we hadn’t seen since the beginning of the pandemic. We spent the evening eating pizza, laughing, and sharing memories, aware that our journey had brought us closer not only to the historical heart of this city but also to the hearts of the people we care so much about. After dinner, we took a walk along Avenue Cartier, between Grande Allee and Chemin Sainte-Foy, admiring the artistic lamps hanging overhead that create a magical atmosphere unique to the city.

Couple smiling under streetlights at night, standing close, with urban background and decorative lamp posts.

Two Tips

Guided by curiosity, we explored the streets of old Quebec City, discovering along the way charming boutiques, art galleries, and secret courtyards, immersed in the unique atmosphere of its cobblestone streets and architecture rich in history.

If you’re looking for a taste of French cuisine with a panoramic view, hidden gems away from the beaten path, or a romantic dining experience surrounded by historic buildings, Quebec City will capture your heart and soul.

To discover the hidden treasures of Quebec City, start with its characteristic alleys. Even with just a couple of days at your disposal, exploring these gems will allow you to have a deeply authentic experience, touching the heart and soul of Quebec City.

Stay mindful, sustainable, and open-minded

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Nancy Perin

Nancy is a caring individual with a background in sociology and a strong desire to connect people. She has improved workplaces and communities with her almost two decades of experience in management teams, human resources, coaching, and community project management. Nancy has also served on the board of directors of the Italian Personnel Managers Association and participated in a humanitarian mission to Dakar, Senegal, to support family centres.

Her intercultural love story sparked her interest in migration-relatedtopics and led her to launch @journeysta, a project that aims to strengthen cultural ties between Canada and Italy.

Nancy oversees the Gallery of Human Migration and believes in the possibility of creating caring communities that are involved in the processes of welcoming, acceptance, and integration. Join her on this journey of discovery and cultural exchange.

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